Football game system and method of play

ABSTRACT

A football game system and method of play including an oblong ball and a rectangular playing field having opposing sidelines, an end line, and a goal line, the opposing sidelines extending a length of the playing field, the end line extending a width of the playing field between the opposing sidelines, and the goal line extending the width of the playing field between the opposing sidelines and being positioned inwardly from the end line. A first squad of nine players each wearing soft-shell helmets and soft-shell shoulder pads has as an objective to move the oblong ball across the first goal line. A second squad of nine players each wearing soft-shell helmets and soft-shell shoulder pads has as an objective to defend the first goal line by stopping the movement of the oblong ball by the first squad towards the first goal line.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a football game, and, moreparticularly, to a football game system and method of play including twoopposing squads of nine players each wearing soft-shell helmets andsoft-shell shoulder pads.

BACKGROUND

Due to developments in the early detection and diagnosis of ChronicTraumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), many sports, including traditionalAmerican football, have been receiving increased scrutiny for playersafety at all levels (amateur and professional). CTE is a progressivedegenerative disease of the brain found in people with a history ofrepetitive brain trauma (often athletes), including symptomaticconcussions as well as asymptomatic subconcussive hits to the head thatdo not cause symptoms. As a result, many parents are hesitant to signtheir children up for the game of football in any form (e.g., flag, 7 on7, tackle, passing leagues, or other game formats and leagues).Moreover, even for those parents willing to sign their child up yearafter year, at some point the child must make the difficult (andsometimes dangerous) transition from non-contact flag football tofull-contact tackle football. As a result, entry-level players offull-contact tackle football often lack the skills and fundamentalsneeded to play the game safely and successfully. This can, and sometimesdoes, cause injuries to still-developing bodies. Therefore, what isneeded is a method, apparatus, system, or assembly that addresses one ormore of the foregoing issues, and/or one or more other issues, by, forexample, easing the transition from non-contact flag football tofull-contact tackle football. For another example, such a method,apparatus, system, or assembly could also be used to further develop theskills and fundamentals needed to play the game safely and successfullyfor players who already participate in full-contact tackle footballleagues (e.g., through off-season use by tackle football organizations).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of a football game system, whichincludes two opposing squads separated by a line of scrimmage in theprocess of playing the football game of the present disclosure,according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of a first playing field on whichthe football game of the present disclosure is playable by the twoopposing squads of FIG. 1, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a traditional football field on which thefirst playing field of FIG. 2 and up to three other playing fieldssubstantially identical to the first playing field are set up at thesame time, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic illustration of a second playing field on whichthe football game of the present disclosure is playable by the twoopposing squads of FIG. 1, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a traditional football field on which thesecond playing field of FIG. 2 and one other playing field substantiallyidentical to the second playing field is set up at the same time,according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a soft-shell helmet configured to beworn by each player on the two opposing squads during play of thefootball game of the present disclosure, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of soft-shell shoulder pads configured tobe worn by each player on the two opposing squads during play of thefootball game of the present disclosure, according to one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a player from one of the two opposingsquads carrying an oblong ball during play of the football game of thepresent disclosure, the player wearing the soft-shell helmet of FIG. 6and the soft-shell shoulder pads of FIG. 7, according to one or moreembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring initially to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the football gamesystem of the present disclosure is generally referred to by thereference numeral 8 and includes two opposing teams, one team being onoffense while the other team is on defense, and vice versa. The teamseach include an offensive squad 10 that is fielded when the team is onoffense and a defensive squad 12 that is fielded when the team is ondefense. Each team, whether on offense or defense, is allowed to fieldnine players at a time. Thus, the team on offense fields its offensivesquad 10 with nine offensive players while the team on defense fieldsits defensive squad 12 with nine defensive players. The offensive squad10 tries to advance the football down the playing field to score in an“end zone” defended by the defensive squad 12. More particularly, theteam on offense takes possession of the football and fields its nine-manoffensive squad 10, which squad attempts to advance the ball down thefield by running with the ball or throwing it. The offensive squad 10scores points by crossing into the end zone while in possession of thefootball, or by catching the football in the end zone, as will bedescribed in further detail below. On the other hand, the team ondefense fields its nine-man defensive squad 12 and tries to stop theoffensive squad 10 from crossing into the end zone, or from catching thefootball in the end zone, in order to make the offensive squad 10 giveup possession of the football. If the team on offense scores or isforced to give up possession of the football, the offensive anddefensive teams switch roles (the team that was on offense goes ondefense and the team that was on defense goes on offense)—thiscontinues, back and forth, until the entire game has been played.

Referring to FIG. 2, in an embodiment, the football game system 8 of thepresent disclosure includes a playing field 14 having a rectangularshape and defining a length L1 and a width W1. In some embodiments, thelength L1 is approximately 50 yards (150 feet) and the width W1 isapproximately 25 yards (75 feet). In other embodiments, the length L1 isapproximately 60 yards (180 feet) and the width W1 is approximately 25yards. However, the length L1 may vary from at least about 40 yards (120feet) to about 63⅓ yards (190 feet), and the width W1 may vary fromabout 20 yards (60 feet) to about 35 yards (105 feet). In someembodiments, the length L1 of the playing field 14 is between about 40yards and about 63⅓ yards (190 feet), and thus the length L1 may be 50yards, about 50 yards, 63⅓ yards, about 63⅓ yards, or any length between40 yards and 63⅓ yards. In some embodiments the width W1 of the playingfield 14 is between about 20 yards (60 feet) and about 35 yards (105feet), and thus the width W1 may be 20 yards, about 20 yards, 35 yards,about 35 yards, or any width between 20 yards and 35 yards.

The playing field 14 includes end lines 16 a and 16 b at opposing endsthereof. The end lines 16 a and 16 b extend the entire width W1 of theplaying field 14 and are spaced in a substantially parallel relation.Goal lines 18 a and 18 b are positioned inwardly from the respective endlines 16 a and 16 b by a distance D1. In some embodiments, the distanceD1 is approximately 5 yards (15 feet). However, the distance D1 may varyfrom at least about 3 yards (9 feet) to about 10 yards (30 feet). Insome embodiments, the distance D1 is between about 3 yards and about 10yards, and thus the distance D1 may be 3 yards, about 3 yards, 5 yards,about 5 yards, 10 yards, about 10 yards, or any distance between about 3yards and about 10 yards. The goal lines 18 a and 18 b extend the entirewidth W1 of the playing field 14, are spaced in a substantially parallelrelation, and are separated by a distance D2. In some embodiments, thedistance D2 is approximately 40 yards (120 feet). In other embodiments,the distance D2 is approximately 50 yards. However, the distance D2 mayvary from about 40 yards to about 53⅓ yards (160 feet). The area betweenthe end line 16 a and the goal line 18 a forms an end zone 20 a, and thearea between the end line 16 b and the goal line 18 b forms an end zone20 b. The end zones 20 a and 20 b are bordered by sidelines 22 a and 22b that extend the entire length L1 of the playing field 14 and arespaced in a substantially parallel relation. The corners of the endzones 20 a and 20 b can be marked by weighted pylons, and the area onthe playing field 14 between the goal lines 18 a and 18 b can be markedby markers. For example, some of the markers can be used to markstarting lines of scrimmage 24 a and 24 b positioned inwardly from therespective goal lines 18 a and 18 b by a distance D3. In an embodiment,the distance D3 is approximately 10 yards (30 feet) but may vary fromabout 5 yards (15 feet) to about 25 yards (75 feet). Others of themarkers can be used to mark yardage from the closest goal line 18 a or18 b (unless the marker is equidistant from both goal lines 18 a and 18b, in which case the marker would indicate the distance from either goalline 18 a or 18 b).

Turning to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the football game system 8includes the playing field 14 and up to three other playing fields 14′,14″, and 14′″ substantially identical to the playing field 14, which areset up on a single traditional football field 25 (having a length of 120yards and a width of 53⅓ yards). In some embodiments, the length L1 ofthe playing field 14 and the corresponding lengths of the other playingfields 14′, 14″ and 14′″ run from sideline to sideline on thetraditional football field 25, as shown in FIG. 3. As a result, the endzones 20 a and 20 b (shown in FIG. 2) are within the boundaries of thetraditional football field 25. In other embodiments, however, the goallines 18 a and 18 b may be located on or near the sidelines of thetraditional football field 25 so that the end zones 20 a and 20 b (shownin FIG. 2) extend therebeyond. Moreover, in still other embodiments, theplaying field 14 and/or the other playing fields 14′, 14″, and 14′″ maybe otherwise located on the traditional football field 25. In someembodiments, the playing field 14 and the other playing fields 14′, 14″,14′″ are separated from each other by a minimum of about 5 yards forsafety purposes.

Referring to FIG. 4, in another embodiment, the football game system 8of the present disclosure includes a playing field 26 having arectangular shape and defining a length L2 and a width W2. In someembodiments, the length L2 is approximately 55 yards (165 feet) and thewidth W2 is approximately 53⅓ yards. However, the length L2 may varyfrom about 45 yards (135 feet) to about 55 yards, and the width W2 mayvary from about 40 yards (120 feet) to about 53⅓ yards. In someembodiments, the length L2 of the playing field 26 is between about 45yards (135 feet) and about 55 yards (165 feet), and thus the length L2is 45 yards, about 45 yards, 55 yards, about 55 yards, or any lengthbetween 45 yards and 55 yards. In some embodiments, the width W2 of theplaying field 26 is between about 40 yards (120 feet) and about 53-1/3yards (160 feet), and thus the width W2 is 40 yards, about 40 yards, 53⅓yards, about 53⅓ yards, or any width between 40 yards and 53⅓ yards. Theplaying field 26 includes a starting line of scrimmage 28 a and an endline 28 b at opposing ends thereof. The starting line of scrimmage 28 aand the end line 28 b extend the entire width W2 of the playing field 26and are spaced in a substantially parallel relation. A goal line 30 ispositioned inwardly from the end line 28 b by a distance D4. In someembodiments, the distance D4 is approximately 10 yards (30 feet).However, the distance D4 may vary from at least about 3 yards (9 feet)to about 10 yards. In some embodiments, the distance D4 is between about3 yards and about 10 yards, and thus the distance D4 may be 3 yards,about 3 yards, 5 yards, about 5 yards, 10 yards, about 10 yards, or anydistance between about 3 yards and about 10 yards. The goal line 30extends the entire width W2 of the playing field 26, is spaced in asubstantially parallel relation with the end line 28 b and is separatedfrom the starting line of scrimmage 28 a by a distance D5. In someembodiments, the distance D5 is approximately 45 yards. However, thedistance D5 may vary from about 35 yards to about 45 yards. The areabetween the end line 28 b and the goal line 30 forms an end zone 32. Theend zone 32 is bordered by sidelines 34 a and 34 b that extend theentire length L2 of the playing field 26 and are spaced in asubstantially parallel relation. The corners of the end zone 32 can bemarked by weighted pylons, and the area on the playing field 26 betweenthe goal line 30 and the starting line of scrimmage 28 a can be markedby markers. For example, some of the markers can be used to mark yardagefrom the goal line 30.

Turning to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the football game system 8includes the playing field 26 and one other playing field 26′substantially identical to the playing field 26, which are set up on thesingle traditional football field 25. In some embodiments, the width W2of the playing field 26 and the corresponding width of the other playingfield 26′ run from sideline to sideline on the traditional footballfield 25, as shown in FIG. 3. Moreover, in some embodiments, thestarting line of scrimmage 28 a (shown in FIG. 4) of the playing field26 and the corresponding starting line of scrimmage of the other playingfield 26′ are located on opposing 45-yard-lines of the traditionalfootball field 25. As a result, the end zone 32 (shown in FIG. 4) of theplaying field 26 and the corresponding end zone of the other playingfield 26′ coincide with the end zones of the traditional football field25. In other embodiments, however, the playing field 26 and/or the otherplaying field 26′ may be otherwise located on the traditional footballfield 25.

It is noted that, although described herein as including the playingfield 14 and/or the up to three other playing fields 14′, 14″, and 14′″,or the playing field 26 and/or the one other playing field 26′, thefootball game system 8 may instead include only the traditional footballfield 25.

Referring again to FIG. 1, with continuing reference to FIGS. 2-5, themajority of the football game of the present disclosure takes place onplays, or downs, that begin at a line of scrimmage 36. In someembodiments, the line of scrimmage 36 includes imaginary lines thatextend between sidelines (e.g., 22 a and 22 b, or 34 a and 34 b) andthrough the front and rear end points of the football. The area betweenthese imaginary lines may be referred to as the neutral zone. Theoffensive and defensive players are considered to be on the line ofscrimmage 36 when they are within one yard of the neutral zone. In anembodiment, the nine players of the offensive squad 10 are broken intotwo groups: three offensive linemen, whose primary job it is to block,and six eligible ball carriers (including five eligible receivers andone quarterback), whose primary job it is to advance the football byeither running or passing. The organization of the offensive squad 10 ismandated by certain rules. First, at the beginning of each play, theremust be at least five offensive players on the line of scrimmage 36, andno more than four offensive players can be positioned behind the line ofscrimmage 36 (i.e., in the backfield). Second, the only players eligibleto handle the football during a normal play are the backs and thereceivers—the remaining players (i.e., the offensive linemen) areconsidered ineligible, and may only block. Within these two rules,however, creative coaches can develop a wide array of offensiveformations to take advantage of different player skills and gamesituations. Regardless of the particular offensive formation chosen, thepositions held by players on the offensive squad 10 are all aimed atachieving one goal—advancing the football down the field and into theend zone (e.g., 20 a, 20 b, or 32). To achieve this goal, each offensiveposition has different responsibilities that must be carried out, aswill be described in further detail below.

The offensive linemen include a center 38 and a pair of guards 40 and42. The center 38 begins every offensive play by “snapping” the footballto a quarterback 44. After the center 38 snaps the football, his mainjob is to block defensive players. The manner in which the center 38blocks depends on the opposing defensive alignment and the offensiveplay call. The center 38 is a fairly tall, thick player with good levelsof strength, and is preferably one of the heavier players on theoffensive squad 10. The center 38 must have a high level ofintelligence, since it's his job to communicate the defensive alignmentto the other offensive lineman and inform them of their assignments. Thebest centers are big, intelligent players who are good at snapping thefootball and highly skilled at blocking. The guards 40 and 42 line updirectly to the right and left of the center 38, and are preferably evenbigger than the center 38. The guards 40 and 42 have the responsibilityto block defensive players by either run blocking (pushing the defensiveplayers away from the ball carrier on a running play) or pass blocking(stopping the defensive players from disrupting or downing thequarterback 44 on a passing play). In some embodiments of the footballgame of the present disclosure, any blocking (whether run blocking orpass blocking) must be initiated with the hands (referred to as “openhand blocking”)—any use of the shoulders for blocking is prohibited. Themanner in which the guards 40 and 42 block depends on the opposingdefensive alignment and the offensive play call. The guards 40 and 42can also “pull” on some plays by running out of their position on thedefensive line to lead block for a ball carrier. The best guards are bigplayers who are highly skilled at blocking.

The offensive backs include a quarterback 44 and a pair of running backs46 and 48. The quarterback 44 is the player who receives the footballfrom the center 38 to start the play—considered the most importantposition on the offensive squad 10, the quarterback 44 is responsiblefor receiving the play call from the coaches on the sideline andcommunicating the play call to the other offensive players in thehuddle. The quarterback 44 may also need to make changes to the play atthe line of scrimmage 36, depending on the defensive alignment. At thestart of the play, the quarterback 44 may be lined up “under center”(directly in contact with the center 38 to receive the football viadirect hand-to-hand pass) or “in the shotgun” (some distance behind thecenter 38)—exactly how far the quarterback 44 stands from the center 38depends on the offensive formation. Upon receiving the snap from thecenter 38, the quarterback 44 may advance the football by running withit himself, handing it to another ball carrier to run with, or executinga forward pass to a player downfield, as will be described in furtherdetail below. The quarterback 44 can even act as a receiver to catch apass thrown by another player during a trick play. For this reason, thequarterback 44 must be able to throw the football accurately, read thedefense, and make quick and accurate decisions. The best quarterbacksare tall, intelligent players with a good throwing arm and strongleadership qualities.

The running backs 46 and 48 are players who line up behind the offensivelinemen, and who are in position to receive the football from thequarterback 44 to execute a running play. Anywhere from one to threerunning backs may be utilized in a play. Depending on where they lineup, and what role they have, running backs come in several types. Forexample, the running backs 46 and 48 may include a fullback and ahalfback, respectively. The fullback 46 lines up either in front of ornext to the halfback 48—his exact alignment depends on the formation.Moreover, in certain offensive formations, the fullback 46 lines upright behind the line of scrimmage 36, an alignment in which thefullback 46 is referred to as an H-Back. The fullback 46 is involved inrunning, blocking, and (sometimes) catching passes—he is preferablylarger and stronger than the halfback 48, and acts primarily as ablocker. For this reason, the fullback 46 is a strong and stocky playerthat lines up closer to the line of scrimmage 36 than the halfback 48.The best fullbacks are tough, powerful players with above average sizeand a knack for blocking.

The halfback 48 lines up either directly behind, or right next to, thequarterback 44, and, in many cases, behind the fullback 46—his exactalignment depends on the formation. The halfback 48 is involved inrunning, blocking, and catching passes. The halfback 48 is the playerwho often receives handoffs from the quarterback 44 and runs forward togain yardage but is sometimes used as a receiver out of the backfield(e.g., acting as a last resort for the quarterback 44 when all otherreceivers are covered during a passing play). For this reason, thehalfback 48 is a shorter, smaller player who is light on his feet andcan maneuver through tight holes. The halfback 48 can also line upbehind the center 38 to receive the snap and may even throw a pass ontrick plays. The best halfbacks are fast, agile players with good visionand the ability to break downs and carry the football.

The receivers include a pair of wide receivers 50 and 52 and (sometimes)a tight end 54. The wide receivers 50 and 52 line up on or near the lineof scrimmage 36—the width of their alignment depends on the formation,but they have the widest alignment of any offensive player. The numberof wide receivers on the offensive squad 10 can vary widely depending onthe formation (e.g., the offensive squad 10 can line up as many as fivewide receivers), but most basic formations include two wide receivers.The wide receivers 50 and 52, like the running backs 46 and 48, come indifferent varieties depending on whether they are lined up on the lineof scrimmage 36 or behind the line of scrimmage 36. The wide receiver 50(called a “split end”) is lined up directly on the line of scrimmage 36and is counted among the five required players on the line of scrimmage36. On the other hand, the wide receiver 52 (called a “flanker”) islined up behind the line of scrimmage 36 and is therefore counted as oneof the four required backs. Finally, in some embodiments, a widereceiver (called a “slot receiver” or “slotback”) lines up “in the slot”between the outermost wide receiver and the offensive linemen. Theprimary responsibility of the wide receivers 50 and 52 is to catchpasses and to run after the catch, but they are occasionally called onto block as well. For this reason, the wide receivers 50 and 52 areplayers of medium to above-average height, with a fair amount of speedand the ability to catch passes. The best wide receivers are quickplayers who have a knack for catching the football and have the balanceand agility to run good routes. But the most well-rounded wide receiversare also effective blockers and, in some cases, can act as running backson trick plays.

The tight end 54 can line up virtually anywhere on the field, but ispreferably aligned directly next to one of the guards 40 or 42, and istherefore counted as one of the five required players on the line ofscrimmage 36. The tight end 54 may alternatively line up as an H-backbehind the line of scrimmage 36, in which case he would be counted asone of the four required backs, but otherwise his role is similar tothat of a normal tight end. The tight end 54 is essentially acombination of an offensive lineman and a wide receiver, and is amongthe most well-rounded athletes on the field. Because the tight end 54plays directly next to the offensive linemen, he is frequently called onto block (especially during running plays), but he may also be called onto catch passes. The tight end 54 must therefore be strong enough to runblock and pass block, as well as agile enough to run pass routes andcatch the football. For this reason, the tight end 54 is preferablybigger and stronger than a wide receiver yet smaller and faster than anoffensive lineman. The best tight ends are tall players that are skilledat both catching passes and blocking. Sometimes the tight end 54 isomitted from the offensive formation in favor of another running back oranother wide receiver.

Depending on the style of offense the coaches have designed, the gamesituation, and the relative skill sets of the players, squads may runoffensive formations which contain any number of backs and receivers, solong as the mandated four players in the backfield and five players onthe line of scrimmage 36 rule is followed. Thus, squads may use a widevariety of formations, from a formation with three running backs, twotight ends, and no wide receivers, to a formation featuring four or fivewide receivers, sometimes without any running backs.

Referring still to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the squad that begins aplay not in possession of the football is said to be on defense, and sofields its defensive squad 12 with nine defensive players. The nineplayers of the defensive squad 12 are broken into three groups:defensive linemen, whose primary job it is to prevent the offensivelinemen from opening up running lanes for the running backs 46 and 48 orto sack the quarterback 44, linebackers, whose primary job it is to stopthe run, rush the quarterback 44, or drop back into pass protection, anddefensive backs, whose primary job is pass coverage, although they canalso be involved in stopping the run or rushing the quarterback 44. Thedefensive players' specific positions on the field and duties during thegame vary depending on the type of defensive formation being used aswell as the kind of offensive formation the defensive squad 12 isfacing. Regardless of the particular defensive formation chosen, thepositions held by players on the defensive squad 12 are all aimed atachieving one goal—preventing the offensive squad 10 from gaining yardsand scoring. To achieve this goal, each defensive position has differentresponsibilities that must be carried out.

The defensive linemen line up directly on the line of scrimmage 36,close to the football, and include a pair of defensive ends 56 and 58that line up against the offensive linemen, including the center 38and/or the guards 40 and 42. The primary responsibility of the defensiveends 56 and 58 is to prevent the offensive linemen from opening uprunning lanes for the running backs 46 and 48 or to sack the quarterback44, depending on whether the play is a passing play or a running play.Most of the time, the defensive ends 56 and 58 attack the offensivelinemen, but in some plays they drop back into pass coverage to confusethe offensive squad 10. The defensive ends 56 and 58 line up on the lineof scrimmage 36 just outside the guards 40 and 42, and need to be strongso as not to be pushed back by the offensive linemen, yet fast enough torun around the guards 40 and 42 and sack the quarterback 44. Somedefensive ends are strong and considered more adept at stopping the run,while others are fast and agile, and are much better at rushing thequarterback 44 than stopping the run. The defensive ends 56 and 58 aremost effectively used to stop offensive runs to the outer edges of theline of scrimmage 36 (referred to as “containment”). The faster of thetwo defensive ends is preferably placed on the right side of thedefensive line (to the quarterback 44's left) because that is aright-handed quarterback 44's blind side. The best defensive ends aretall, strong players with the ability to hold their own against theoffensive guards 40 and 42 and the speed and quickness to get to thequarterback 44 or chase down the running backs 46 and 48.

The linebackers can either stand behind the defensive linemen or setthemselves up on the line of scrimmage 36, and, depending on the type ofdefensive strategy being used, the linebackers' responsibilities caninclude helping to stop the run, rushing the quarterback 44, or droppingback into pass protection. The linebackers may include a middlelinebacker 60 and a pair of outside linebackers 62 and 64. The middlelinebacker 60 is responsible for knowing every defensive player'sassignment and occasionally making adjustments to the defensiveformation based on what the offensive squad 10 is doing. The middlelinebacker 60 must also be capable of stopping the running backs 46 and48 when they make it past the defensive linemen, covering pass playsover the middle, and rushing the quarterback 44 on blitz plays. For thisreason, the middle linebacker 60 is preferably the biggest and strongestlinebacker on the defensive squad 12, finding himself in the middle ofthe action and leading the squad in downs. The best middle linebackersare strong, intelligent players who are good downers and can make playsboth in space and in traffic.

The outside linebackers 62 and 64 set up behind the line of scrimmage36, either just inside or just outside the defensive ends 56 and 58, andare used to rush the quarterback 44. The outside linebackers 62 and 64tend to be the fastest and most agile linebackers on the defense. Theoutside linebacker 62 is the “weak side” linebacker whose role it is toline up on the side of the offensive line without the tight end 54, andwho is used to rush or blitz the quarterback 44, or to cover the runningback 46 or 48 on pass plays. The outside linebacker 64 is the “strongside” linebacker whose role it is to line up on the same side as thetight end 54, and who is responsible for covering the tight end 54 orthe running back 46 or 48 on pass plays. For these reasons, the outsidelinebackers 62 and 64 are preferably a bit more athletic than the middlelinebacker 60, because they are asked to blitz more and have tougherassignments in pass coverage. The best outside linebackers are long,strong athletic players who can make plays in space and are soliddowners.

The defensive backs play behind the linebackers or set to the outside(near the sidelines), and their primary responsibility is pass coverage,although they can also be used to stop the run or rush the quarterback44. The defensive backs must therefore be able to make open field downs,especially when the ball carrier has advanced the football past theother defensive players. The defensive backs typically include a pair ofcornerbacks 66 and 68 and a pair of safeties 70 and 72, but specialtydefensive backs can also be brought into the game to replace linebackersor defensive linemen when there is a need to cover additional receivers.The cornerbacks 66 and 68 line up opposite the wide receivers 50 and 52,and their main job is to cover the wide receivers 50 and 52 and toprevent them from catching passes, or to down them if they do catch apass. For this reason, the cornerbacks 66 and 68 are preferably similarphysically to wide receivers. In running situations, the job of thecornerbacks 66 and 68 is to contain the runner, either by directing himback to the middle of the field to be downed, by downing him themselves,or by forcing him out of bounds. The best cornerbacks are small toaverage-sized players with great speed, acceleration, instincts andcoverage skills. The safeties 70 and 72 are the farthest away from theline of scrimmage 36 when the play starts, and their job is to help thecornerbacks 66 and 68 cover receivers and, if necessary, to help thedefensive line and linebackers protect against the run. Because of thiscomprehensive role, most safeties are the best all-around athletes onthe defensive squad 12. The free safety 70 lines up in the middle of thedefensive backfield at least 10 yards away from the line of scrimmage36, and does not have a specific responsibility—he is free to follow theball as the play develops (hence the title of “free” safety). The freesafety 70 is expected to help the cornerbacks 66 and 68 defend againstpasses, especially deep passes. If the offensive formation employs morethan two receivers, the free safety 70 may be asked to cover one of theextra receivers. The best free safeties are small to average-sizedplayers with good speed, range, anticipation, and ball catching skills.The strong safety 72 lines up toward the middle of the defensivebackfield, either even with the free safety 70 or several yards closerto the line of scrimmage 36. The strong safety 72 is preferably a bitbigger and stronger than the free safety 70, because he plays a largerrole in stopping the run. The strong safety 72 is responsible forcovering the tight end 54 or an extra receiver, depending on theoffensive formation. The best strong safeties are average-sized tough,athletic players who are adept at pass coverage and downing the ballcarrier.

Turning to FIGS. 6-8, with continuing reference to FIGS. 1-5, thefootball game system 8 further includes an oblong ball 73, as well asapproved soft-shell helmets 74, soft-shell shoulder pads 76, and mouthguards 78, which are mandatory for all players and must be readilyvisible to the game official. The soft-shell shoulder pads 76 includeshoulder protection as well as solar plexus protection. In someembodiments, an AC joint pad may be used with the soft-shell shoulderpads 76. Moreover, in some embodiments, at least when the football gameof the present disclosure is played on the playing field 14, each playeron the field must wear approved flags 80 around their waist outside ofgame jerseys 82. The flags 80 must be centered with a flag on each hip.Improperly worn flags 80 are subject to a flag guarding penalty. Theflags 80 may not be altered in any way from their original/manufacturedcondition. If the soft-shell helmets 74 and the soft-shell shoulder pads76 are used in an offensive manner such as, for example, spearing, theoffending player will be subject to penalization for unnecessaryroughness. Cleats 84 are also required, but cannot include metal cleatsand/or metal spikes. Hard casts, unapproved soft-shell shoulder pads orsoft-shell helmets, baseball caps of any kind, jewelry (including rings,necklaces and watches), or anything that conceals the flags 80 areprohibited. Scrum caps, karate helmets, headbands, or any othernon-approved helmet is not allowed. Wearing any banned equipment on thefield will result in a delay of game penalty, and the offending playerwith not be allowed back onto the field until the banned equipment isremoved. In some embodiments, the ball carrier is downed by thedefensive squad 12 when a player from the defensive squad 12 removes oneof the ball carrier's flags 80, as will be discussed in further detailbelow. In other embodiments, however, the flags 80 are omitted and theball carrier is downed at the point where the ball carrier is tagged ortouched below the shoulders by an opposing player, as will be discussedin further detail below.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-3, with continuing reference to FIGS. 6-8, inan embodiment, the football game of the present disclosure is playableon the playing field 14. More particularly, at the start of each game onthe playing field 14, the game official will gather players (maximum 4)from each squad near the center of the playing field 14 for a coin toss.In some embodiments, the head coach must accompany the players andidentify himself to the game officials. The game opening coin toss andthe overtime coin toss (if applicable) will be called by the visitingsquad before the coin is flipped. The winner of the coin toss may chooseeither the direction to start play or whether to start play on offenseor defense, and the loser of the coin toss will be given the otheroption—to begin the second half, the squads will do the opposite with nosecond half coin toss. Coaches must have their squads assembled 5minutes before their scheduled start or with no less than 5 minutes togo in the prior game. If a squad is not at the coin toss on time(subject to game official's discretion), the opposing squadautomatically wins the coin toss. Gameplay starts at the starting lineof scrimmage 24 a or 24 b (e.g., the 10-yard-line)—for example, the cointoss could result in the football being placed on the offensive squad10's starting line of scrimmage 24 a. The offensive squad 10 gathers ina huddle and discusses the play it will use to try to advance thefootball downfield in a direction 86 toward the end zone 20 b,respectively. The defensive squad 12 also forms a huddle and discussesits next attempt to slow the offensive squad 10. After the squads comeout of their respective huddles, they line up opposite each other on theline of scrimmage 36, which initially coincides, for example, with thestarting line of scrimmage 24 a on the playing field 14.

In some embodiments, at least five players from the offensive squad 10must line up on the line of scrimmage 36 before the play begins. In someembodiments, no more than four players from the offensive squad 10 arepermitted in the backfield before the play begins. In some embodiments,at least five players from the offensive squad 10 must line up on theline of scrimmage 36 before the play begins, and no more than fourplayers from the offensive squad 10 are permitted in the offensivebackfield before the play begins. In some embodiments, the offensivesquad 10 must have five players on the line of scrimmage 36 prior to thesnap, including three offensive linemen and two eligible receivers (forexample, one receiver on each opposing side of the offensive line). Insome embodiments, only one player behind the line of scrimmage 36 may bein motion at the snap of the football—such motion must be parallel tothe line of scrimmage 36. In some embodiments, at least two players fromthe defensive squad 12 (e.g., the defensive ends 56 and 58) must line upon the line of scrimmage 36 before the play begins. However, nodefensive player is permitted to line up directly over (in front of) thecenter 38 (or the guards). In some embodiments, no more than sevenplayers from the defensive squad 12 are permitted in the defensivebackfield before the play begins. In some embodiments, at least twoplayers from the defensive squad 12 (e.g., the defensive ends 56 and 58)must line up on the line of scrimmage 36 before the play begins, and nomore than seven players from the defensive squad 12 are permitted in thedefensive backfield before the play begins.

The play begins when the center 38 crouches over the ball and snaps itto the quarterback 44, and the play ends when the football becomes dead.The quarterback 44 may take a direct snap from under center 38 or in theshotgun position. In some embodiments, prior to the snap, all playersexcept for the center 38 must be in a 2-point stance, and not a 3-pointstance. The center 38 is required to snap the ball between his legs—thesnap must be continuous, meaning that it must pass directly andimmediately from the center 38 to the quarterback 44 (or another playeron the offensive squad 10). At the beginning of each play, the center 38must have both feet at the line of scrimmage 36 with no part of his bodyextending beyond the forward tip of the football. After the snap, thecenter 38 is allowed to double squad a defensive player (e.g., togetherwith one of the guards 40 or 42), but must initiate blocking with hishands. After receiving the snap, the quarterback 44 (or anotheroffensive back) can pass the ball or hand it off to a teammate.

The football can become dead in a number of ways. For example, thefootball becomes dead when the ball carrier is downed by the defensivesquad 12 or goes out of bounds, or a pass hits the ground without aplayer having caught it. The defensive squad 12 tries to prevent theoffensive squad 10 from advancing the ball by downing the ball carrieras quickly as possible. In some embodiments, at least when the footballgame of the present disclosure is played on the playing field 14, theball carrier is downed at the point where the ball carrier's flag 80 isremoved (whether on its own or by a player from the opposing squad). Ifthe ball carrier or receiver is missing a flag 80 or flags 80, the ballbecomes dead at the point where the player takes possession of the ball.Alternatively, in some embodiments, at least when the football game ofthe present disclosure is played on the playing field 14, the flags 80are omitted and the ball carrier is downed at the point where the ballcarrier is tagged or touched below the shoulders by an opposing player.Players are not, however, permitted to strip the football from the ballcarrier—any player that makes intentional contact with the ball while itis being carried and causing the ball to be fumbled will be called forstripping (e.g., resulting in a 5 yard penalty).

Passes may be thrown overhand, underhand, or side arm, and passreceivers are only required to get one foot down in bounds to catch acompleted pass. The quarterback 44 and the five eligible receivers arethe only players permitted to catch (or run) the football. On a passingplay, a defensive player and/or receiver may contact each other as manytimes as desired within five yards of the line of scrimmage 36. Beyondfive yards from the line of scrimmage 36, however, any contact may beinterpreted by the game official(s) as pass interference. Any passthrown from behind the line of scrimmage 36 to an offensive playerdownfield is defined as a forward pass. Any pass thrown parallel to theline of scrimmage 36 (or backward) is defined as a lateral pass. Anincomplete lateral pass is a dead ball and the line of scrimmage 36 isreset to where the ball first touched the ground. The quarterback 44 mayspike the ball to stop the clock only after the two-minute warning(discussed below). However, intentional grounding will be called if thequarterback 44 downs the ball while in the tackle box to avoid a loss ofyardage. If an offensive and a defensive player catch the footballsimultaneously, the ball will be declared dead on the spot and awardedto the offense. Moreover, the ball may be touched by two or morereceivers in succession and still result in a completed pass. In someembodiments, at least when the football game of the present disclosureis played on the playing field 14, if a receiver's flag 80 falls offprior to making a catch or is pulled while making the catch, it is ruleda completed pass and the ball is spotted where the catch was made.

In some embodiments, the quarterback 44 is not allowed to run with theball unless the defensive squad 12 blitzes. For example, a blitz may bedefined as any time a third player from the defensive squad 12 (otherthan the two defensive linemen) crosses the line of scrimmage. Moreparticularly, the defensive squad 12 may blitz by adding apre-determined rusher beyond the two defensive linemen (i.e., thedefensive ends 56) during a play. As a result, during a roll out,scramble, or broken play, the quarterback 44 can only run across theline of scrimmage 36 if an additional defensive player (e.g., one of thelinebackers 60, 62, or 64 and/or another defensive back) crosses theline of scrimmage 36 beyond the two defensive ends 56 that are allowedto rush. The quarterback 44 is allowed to run to receive a pass beyondthe line of scrimmage 36 after pitching or handing off the footballbehind the line of scrimmage 36. Moreover, quarterback sneaks in theA-gap (i.e., on either side of the center 38) are not allowed. The A-gapis the area on either side of the center 38 and adjacent the guards. Ifthe quarterback 44 gives the ball to another player (e.g., the halfback48) who then attempts to double pass, that player is subject to the samequarterback 44 running rules.

The offensive players bump the defensive players, or try to force themout of the way, by performing a maneuver known as blocking. Leadblocking for a ball carrier is permitted. Pulling the offensive line isalso allowed, but all blocking rules still apply to the other offensiveplayers. When engaging a block, the blocker must break down and engagethe defensive player with hands first. Landing or piling on a defensiveplayer or player on the ground is prohibited. Knee blocking, chipblocking, and elbowing are also prohibited. Depending on severity, anyblocking initiated with elbows, forearms, or shoulders may result in acharging penalty. Crack back blocks, opposite direction blocks, ordriving a defensive player to the ground are not allowed, and willresult in an unnecessary roughness penalty. Any blocking below thewaist, cut blocks, or crack back blocking will result in an automaticejection of the offending player.

The football is next spotted where it became dead, and this spot becomesthe line of scrimmage 36 for the next play. Spotting of the ball is upto the judgment of the game official(s). The ball should be spotted atthe point it is held when the ball carrier is downed, and not, forexample, the point where the defensive player was standing when hepulled the flag 80, or the place where the defensive player threw thepulled flag 80 on the ground. In the case of an eligible ball carrierdiving to catch the ball, the ball should be spotted at the point wherethe receiver's hips are located when his knee hits the ground. In thecase of an incomplete forward pass, however, the football is returned tothe spot where it was last snapped to begin the next play. In someembodiments, if the football is fumbled in or out of bounds, it isdeclared dead and possession remains with the squad that most recentlyhad control of the football. Indeed, in some embodiments, the only way afumbled ball may be recovered and advanced by the recovering squad is ifthe football is recovered in the air (before it hits the ground).Similarly, an intercepted ball can also be advanced by the interceptingsquad.

Before the offensive squad 10 has advanced the football in the direction86 to within a predetermined distance (e.g., 10 yards) from the goalline 18 b, the offensive squad 10 is given three plays (or “downs”)within which to advance the football downfield by at least thepredetermined distance (e.g., at least 10 yards) in order to retainpossession. If the offense succeeds in advancing the football by atleast the predetermined distance, they earn a “first down” and areawarded a new set of downs starting from the spot to which they lastadvanced. Moreover, after the offensive squad 10 has succeeded inadvancing the football to within the predetermined distance (e.g., 10yards) from the goal line 18 b, the offensive squad 10 is given fourplays (or “downs”) within which to advance the football into the endzone 20 b. Thus, the offensive squad 10 can only go for it on fourthdown when they are inside the “red zone” (i.e., inside the10-yard-line). Alternatively, in other embodiments, the offensive squad10 is permitted to go for it on fourth down when they are both insideand outside the red zone. The offensive squad 10 scores points byreaching the end zone 20 b. If, however, when the football is greaterthan the predetermined distance from the defensive squad 12's goal line18 b, the offensive squad 10 fails to advance the football by at leastthe predetermined distance (e.g., 10 yards) within three downs, or, whenthe football is less than the predetermined distance from the defensivesquad 12's goal line 18 b, the offensive squad 10 fails to advance thefootball into the end zone 20 b within four downs, the defensive squad12 gains control of the football (this is called a “turnover on downs”).Thus, the role of the defensive squad 12 is to prevent the offensivesquad 10 from gaining yards and scoring. The defensive squad 12accomplishes this by forcing the offensive squad 10 to turn the footballover, either by forcing the offensive squad 10 to fumble or throw aninterception, or by forcing a turnover on downs.

If, however, the offensive squad 10 succeeds in advancing the footballinto the end zone 20 b, they score a “touchdown.” More particularly, atouchdown is scored if the football is carried by an offensive playerand breaks the plane of the defensive squad 12's end zone 20 b, or anoffensive player gains control of the football (i.e., before thefootball becomes dead) in the defensive squad 12's end zone 20 b. Anexample of gaining control of the football in the defensive squad 12'send zone 20 b includes catching or recovering the football in the endzone 20 b. A touchdown is worth six points. After a touchdown is scored,the scoring squad will have the option of going for one or two extrapoints, called a conversion or point-after-touchdown attempt. If thescoring squad elects to go for one extra point, the ball will be placeda predetermined distance (e.g., 3 yards) from the goal line 18 b and theoffensive squad 10 will be given a single play in which to achieve, onceagain, what would normally be considered a touchdown (i.e., to run orpass the ball into the end zone 20 b)—such a conversion is worth oneextra point. If, however, the scoring squad elects to go for two extrapoints, the ball will be placed a greater predetermined distance (e.g.,10 yards) from the goal line 18 b and the offensive squad 10 will begiven a single play in which to run or pass the ball into the end zone20 b—such a conversion is worth two extra points. In some embodiments,conversion attempts count as clock plays unless the touchdown is scoredat the end of a half or at the end of the game. That is, if a touchdownis scored at the end of a half or at the end of the game, a conversionattempt will still take place (if necessary). After a conversion attemptis made, the scoring squad must give up possession of the football tothe other squad. In some embodiments, an interception of a conversionattempt by the defensive squad 12 is blown dead by the game official(s).Alternatively, in other embodiments, if a conversion attempt isintercepted by the defensive squad 12, the football can be returned tothe opposite end zone for two points regardless of whether the scoringsquad was attempting a one or two point conversion.

The defensive squad 12 may also score points by downing the offensivesquad 10's ball carrier behind the goal line 18 a, called a safety, andworth two points. The squad that conceded the safety must then give uppossession of the football to the scoring squad. That is, after a safetyis scored, the scoring squad takes possession of the football on its ownstarting line of scrimmage 24 a or 24 b (i.e., the 10-yard-line). Asafety may occur when: the offensive squad 10 drops the football in theoffensive squad 10's end zone 20 a, the defensive squad 12 downs anoffensive ball carrier in the offensive squad 10's end zone 20 a, or alive ball penalty is committed by the offense in the offensive squad10's end zone 20 a. Examples of such penalties include illegal blocking,flag guarding, illegal forward passing, and intentional grounding.

After a conversion attempt by the offensive squad 10, or a safety by thedefensive squad 12, the football is placed on the starting line ofscrimmage 24 b and the squad that was on defense takes over possessionof the football with the objective of advancing the football downfieldin a direction 88 toward the end zone 20 a. Alternatively, in someembodiments, a turnover on downs will result in an “automatic-punt” inwhich the other squad will take over possession of the football 30 yardsupfield from the previous line of scrimmage 36 without any kicking ofthe football. The placement of the football after an automatic-punt maynot be behind the defensive squad 12's starting line of scrimmage 24 b(i.e., the 10-yard-line). This continues, back and forth, until theentire game has been played. The objective of the football game of thepresent disclosure is to score more points than the opposing squadduring the allotted time—the winner is the squad that has scored themost points at the end of the game.

During the regular season, if the score is tied at the end of regulationtime, the squads have the option of entering a tie into the standings orplaying an overtime period. However, during the postseason, if the scoreis tied at the end of regulation time, an overtime period must beplayed. To begin the overtime period, a coin is tossed to determinewhich squad gets the ball first, with the visiting squad calling headsor tails—the coin toss winner may defer to the other squad. The overtimeperiod is structured so that each squad is given three plays (with nofirst downs) in which to score. Each squad is given the opportunity toanswer a score by the other squad if the score occurs within the sameseries, with an unanswered score resulting in a win. Overtime playstarts a predetermined distance (e.g., 10 yards) from the defensivesquad 12's goal line 18 a or 18 b. During the overtime period, aninterception or fumble recovery may be returned for a score by thedefensive squad 12, resulting in an automatic win. No timeouts arepermitted during the overtime period. If the squads are still tied afterthe first overtime series, each squad is required to attempt a two pointconversion after scoring in all subsequent series. Moreover, after thefirst overtime series, the squads will alternate first possession. Thisprocess will be repeated with the squads having equal opportunities toscore until a tie no longer exists after a completed series. In someembodiments, a series is defined as both squads getting one opportunityto score (i.e., in a total of three plays). If the score remains tiedafter the second overtime series, the squad who scores in the leastnumber of plays during the third series will be deemed the winner. Moreparticularly, if the squad having possession first in the series scoreson the second play, the squad having possession second can win if itscores on the first play, but will lose if it does not score on thesecond play.

Referring again to FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, in another embodiment, thefootball game of the present disclosure is playable on the playing field26. With a few exceptions, the football game of the present disclosureis played on the playing field 26 in substantially the same manner asthe manner in which it is played on the playing field 14. Moreparticularly, at the start of each game on the playing field 26, afterthe coin toss, the football is placed on the starting line of scrimmage28 a. The offensive squad 10 gathers in a huddle and discusses the playit will use to try to advance the football downfield in a direction 90toward the end zone 32 (or in a direction 92 toward the end zone of theother playing field that is substantially identical to the playing field26 on the traditional football field 25). The defensive squad 12 alsoforms a huddle and discusses its next attempt to slow the offensivesquad 10. After the squads come out of their respective huddles, theyline up opposite each other on the line of scrimmage 36, which initiallycoincides with the starting line of scrimmage 28 a on the playing field26. The rules regarding the minimum number of players from each squadthat must be lined up on the line of scrimmage 36 before the play beginsare substantially identical to those discussed above. Likewise, therules regarding the maximum number of players from each squad permittedin the backfield before the play begins are substantially identical tothose discussed above. Therefore, these rules will not be discussed infurther detail.

The play begins when the center 38 crouches over the ball and snaps itto the quarterback 44, and the play ends when the football becomes dead.In some embodiments, when the football game of the present disclosure isplayed on the playing field 26, it may optionally be played without theflags 80 and with a two-hand-touch model similar to some passingleagues—all other rules will still apply. The football is next spottedwhere it became dead, and this spot becomes the line of scrimmage 36 forthe next play. The offensive squad 10 scores points by reaching the endzone 30. If, however, when the football is greater than thepredetermined distance from the defensive squad 12's goal line 30, theoffensive squad 10 fails to advance the football by at least thepredetermined distance (e.g., 10 yards) within three downs, or, when thefootball is less than the predetermined distance from the defensivesquad 12's goal line 30, the offensive squad 10 fails to advance thefootball into the end zone 32 within four downs, the defensive squad 12gains control of the football (a turnover on downs). Alternatively, inother embodiments, the offensive squad 10 is permitted to go for it onfourth down when they are both inside and outside the red zone. Thus,the role of the defensive squad 12 is to prevent the offensive squad 10from gaining yards and scoring.

If, however, the offensive squad 10 succeeds in advancing the footballinto the end zone 30, they score touchdown worth six points. Moreparticularly, a touchdown is scored when the football is advance into,caught in, or recovered in the end zone 30. After scoring a touchdown,the offensive squad 10 is given a conversion attempt substantiallyidentical to that discussed above. After the conversion attempt thescoring squad must give up possession of the football to the othersquad. On the other hand, the defensive squad 12 may score a safetyworth two points by downing the offensive squad 10's ball carrier behindthe starting line of scrimmage 28 a. The squad that conceded the safetymust then give up possession of the football to the scoring squad.However, in some embodiments, at least when the football game of thepresent disclosure is played on the playing field 26, there are nosafeties, and downing the offensive squad 10's ball carrier behind thestarting line of scrimmage 28 a simply results in the football beingspotted at the starting line of scrimmage 28 a for the next play.

After a conversion attempt by the offensive squad 10, or after a safetyby the defensive squad 12, the football is again placed on the startingline of scrimmage 28 a and the squad that was on defense takes overpossession of the football with the objective of advancing the footballdownfield in the direction 90 toward the end zone 30. Alternatively, insome embodiments, a turnover on downs will result in the offensive squad10 of the team that was on defense taking over possession of thefootball at the starting line of scrimmage 28 a (e.g., the 45 yard line)with the objective of advancing the football downfield in the direction90 toward the end zone 30. This continues, back and forth, until theentire game has been played.

It is noted that, although described herein as being playable on theplaying field 14, in some embodiments, the football game of the presentdisclosure is also playable on the traditional football field 25 insubstantially the same manner as the manner in which it is played on theplaying field 14, with some possible exceptions. Moreover, it is alsonoted that, although described herein as being playable on the playingfield 26, in some embodiments, the football game of the presentdisclosure is also playable on the traditional football field 25 insubstantially the same manner as the manner in which it is played on theplaying field 26, with some possible exceptions. Finally, it is alsonoted that, although described herein as being playable on the playingfield 14 or the playing field 26, in some embodiments, the football gameof the present disclosure is also playable on the traditional footballfield 25 by combining various aspects of the manner in which it isplayed on the playing field 14 with various aspects of the manner inwhich it is played on the playing field 26, with some possibleexceptions.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, the football game of thepresent disclosure is divided into two 20 minute halves, with a 5 minutehalftime. The game clock will be stopped only for injuries (if theinjured player remains on the field), timeouts, and the two-minutewarning before the end of the game. The game officials will be theofficial timekeepers and scorekeepers, and their decisions are final.Each squad is entitled to one timeout per half. The two-minute warningbefore the end of the game will last for 30 seconds. A 30 second playclock will be enforced. Some dead balls will stop the clock after thetwo-minute warning, including incomplete passes, ball carrier steps outof bounds, scoring plays, change of possession, penalty (clock stopsuntil ball is set), timeout, official time out, or a spiked ball afterthe offensive line is set. In some embodiments, the clock is alsostopped for extra point tries. However, if a squad is losing by 13 ormore points in the final 2 minutes, the clock will not stop.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, the free substitution ofplayers shall be in effect at all times during the football game of thepresent disclosure. If the offensive squad 10 substitutes a player in,the defensive squad 12 shall also be given the chance to substitute aplayer in before the ball is snapped. If the game official stops playfor an injured player or players to be checked or assisted, the injuredplayer needs to leave the field for at least a single play. However, aninjured player may return to play after a coach's timeout, whether ornot a subsequent play has been run. If a player receives a minor ormajor head injury during practice, pre-game warmups, or a game, then theplayer is not allowed to return to play until cleared by a parent orguardian (or, in some embodiments, a physician). This parentalnotification process is important for concussion awareness. If a parentor legal guardian is not present to clear the player, then the playerwill not be allowed back in the practice/warmup/game.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, the defensive squad 12is only permitted one blitzing play per series of downs in the footballgame of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, if a squad leads bymore than 20 points, that squad's defensive players are no longerpermitted to blitz. Bull rushing is not permitted, that is, rushingthrough the centerline of the blocker. Instead, the blitzer or rushermust use their hands and feet to defeat the block to either side of theblocker. Moreover, the blitzer or rusher cannot throw or purposefullypush the block to the ground—this rule is subject to the judgment of thegame official(s). The linebackers and other defensive backs on thedefensive squad 12 are not permitted to blitz the A-gap from the line ofscrimmage 36. However, the linebackers and other defensive backs areallowed to blitz the A-gap if they are lined up at least 3 yards behindthe line of scrimmage 36. Moreover, the center 38 is banned from keepingthe football to perform a “center 38 sneak”—any attempts at a center 38sneak will be penalized as an A-gap violation (e.g., a 5 yards penalty).An A-gap violation will result in a 5 yard penalty from the line ofscrimmage 36 and a replay of the previous down. In some embodiments, ifa defensive squad 12 has more than 5 sacks per half, a sack mercy ruletakes effect in which the defense cannot rush past the line of scrimmage36 for the remainder of the half. Downing the quarterback 44 within thetackle box counts as a sack, but downing the quarterback 44 outside ofthe tackle box does not count as a sack. The game official(s) shalldetermine whether the quarterback 44 was downed within, or outside of,the tackle box. If the quarterback 44 breaks the tackle box on a rollout or scramble, even if the sack mercy rule is in effect, the defensiveplayers are permitted to rush. In some embodiments, the sack mercy ruleis recommended for at least 10U leagues (i.e., age 10 and under).

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure the squad not committing a penalty gets to choosebetween the ultimate result of the play or the enforcement of thepenalty. If both squads commit a penalty on the same play, neitherpenalty is enforced and the down is replayed. Any penalty that resultsin a first down begins a new set of downs with a new line to gain. Nopenalty can move the ball more than half of the distance toward thepenalized squad's goal line—specifically, when the penalty yardage isgreater than half the distance to the goal line, the maximum penaltyyardage that may be awarded is half the distance to the goal line. Insome embodiments, when the football game of the present disclosure isplayed on the playing field 26, no penalty will be enforced beyond thestarting line of scrimmage 28 a. Accordingly, on an offensive play fromthe starting line of scrimmage 28 a that results in an offensivepenalty, the ball will be returned to the 45-yard-line and the line togain a first down will be extended by the penalty yardage (e.g., 5yards). The first or second half cannot end on an accepted defensivepenalty—if the penalty is accepted, it is marked off and a singleun-timed down is played. But if the penalty is declined, the half isover. The attainment of a first down will be determined after the ballis spotted at the end of a play and any applicable penalty yardage isassessed—net yardage (forward progress +/− penalty yardage) must besufficient to award a first down. Flagrant fouls will result in a 1strike warning before the offending player is ejected from thegame—accordingly, 2 flagrant fouls committed by the same player in agame will result in an automatic ejection of the player from the game.Examples of flagrant fouls include intentional tackling and unnecessaryroughness. Any player that strikes another player or becomes involved ina fight will be ejected from the game and suspended from further playindefinitely.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, player safety is ofprimary concern in the football game of the present disclosure, and thegame officials should call an unnecessary roughness penalty any time aplayer uses excessive force or violence during a play, even if theplayer's actions do not technically violate the rules. If unnecessaryroughness is called on an offensive player, the ball is placed 10 yardsfrom the line of scrimmage 36 and the offensive squad 10 receives a lossof down. If unnecessary roughness is called on a defensive player, theball is placed 10 yards from the line of scrimmage 36 or the point wherethe ball becomes dead (whichever is more beneficial to the offense), andthe offensive squad 10 is awarded a first down. All players are expectedto play under control at all times—any player that risks injury tohimself or another player due to unsafe or out of control conduct on thefield will be subject to an unnecessary roughness penalty. Examples ofunnecessary roughness include, but are not limited to: head butting,throwing elbows or forearms, or intentionally hitting, kicking, ortripping other players. No player is permitted to lead with his head toinitiate contact (i.e., no spearing). Other examples include overlyviolent contact such as charging, bull rushing, and purposefully shovinga player to the ground.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure intentional tackling will be called if a playerwraps up the ball carrier to stop forward progress while taking the ballcarrier to the ground, or shoulder checks/hits the ball carrier with theintention of knocking the ball carrier to the ground. The gameofficial(s) have full discretion to include as intentional tackling anyother attempts to use excessive force to initiate a tackle. However,intentional tackling should not be called when a defensive playerinadvertently grabs the ball carrier's clothing from behind in anattempt to pull a flag, or as a result of unintentional contact thatcauses a player to fall to the ground. If intentional tackling is calledon a player, the ball is placed in the red zone at the five-yard-line.An intentional tackling infraction may be called when there is noattempt by the opposing player to pull the ball carrier flag. Anautomatic touchdown will be awarded to a squad if one of its players isintentionally tackled (with no attempt to pull a flag) while running fora breakaway touchdown. A less severe penalty (e.g., 10 yards) should beenforced if an opposing player unintentionally impedes the ball carrierby grabbing a part of the ball carrier's body or clothing whileattempting to pull a flag.

In those embodiments in which the football game of the presentdisclosure is played with the flags 80, the ball carrier may not guardhis flags or jump to avoid a flag from being pulled by a defensiveplayer. The ball carrier may not dive for the end zone or in an attemptto gain additional yardage. The ball carrier may not attempt shortyardage or “over the pile” jumps. A diving penalty will be called on theoffense if an offensive player dives forward in an attempt to gainyardage, including diving into the end zone or for a first down, andwill result in a 5 yard penalty from the end of the play and a loss ofdown. An intended receiver is, however, permitted to dive in an attemptto catch a pass. Moreover, players are permitted to dive in an attemptto pull the ball carrier's flag. Players are also permitted to jump orhurdle other players that have fallen in their path. The quarterback 44is allowed to jump when passing the ball. Any player who jumps illegallyand lands on another player will be penalized for unnecessary roughness.The ball carrier may spin, as long as he remains on the ground. A flagguarding penalty will be called when the ball carrier: physicallyprevents a defensive player from reaching the ball carrier's flags(e.g., covering flags, knocking/slapping defensive players hands away,etc.), holds his belt or flags, wears any article of clothing (e.g.,jersey, towel, etc.) in a manner that obstructs his flags, or jumps forany reason other than avoiding a player lying on the ground or throwinga pass. Flag guarding will result in a 5 yard penalty from the point ofinfraction and a loss of down. If the ball carrier wears illegal flags(e.g., wrapped flags, improper flags, partial flags, etc.), the ballwill be dead at the point where the ball carrier takes possession of theball.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure pass interference includes any non-contactinterference such as face-guarding as well as any physical contact(whether intentional or unintentional) that interferes with a receiver'sor a defensive player's legitimate right to catch the ball before theball arrives and while it is in the air. Offensive pass interferencewill result in a 10 yard penalty assessed at the end of the play and theoffensive squad 10 receives a loss of down. Defensive pass interferencewill result in the football being placed 10 yards from the line ofscrimmage 36 and an automatic first down. Examples of pass interferenceinclude, but are not limited to, the receiver or the defensive playerpushing off while the ball is in the air, any other contact between thereceiver and the defensive player more than 5 yards past the line ofscrimmage 36, or intentionally running into the defensive player withoutthe ball on a passing play. Any defensive pass interference occurring inthe end zone will result in a first and goal from the 1-yard-line.Intentional pulling of the receiver's flag before a reception is alsoconsidered pass interference. Any significant physical contact after theball arrives shall be considered a personal foul.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure illegal blocking by any player on the offensivesquad 10 will result in a 10 yard penalty from the line of scrimmage 36.Illegal blocking includes, but is not limited to, intentional“pancaking” of a defensive player with which the offensive player isengaged (severity may result in unnecessary roughness penalty), landingor piling on a defensive player on the ground, chip blocking, kneeblocking, elbowing, initiating a block with elbows, forearms orshoulders (severity may result in charging penalty), crack back oropposite direction blocking, intentionally driving a defensive player tothe ground, and initiating blocking with shoulders either at the line ofscrimmage 36 or downfield. Block below the waist, cut blocks, or crackback blocks will result in an automatic ejection of the offendingplayer. A holding penalty will be called on the offense if an offensiveplayer impedes a defensive player's progress by holding their bodyand/or clothing, and will result in a 5 yard penalty from the line ofscrimmage 36.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure an illegal procedure penalty will be called onthe offensive squad 10 if an offensive player moves before the snap, andwill result in a five yard penalty from the line of scrimmage 36 and areplay of the previous down. An illegal motion penalty will be called onthe offensive squad 10 if more than one offensive player is in motionwhen the ball is snapped, and will result in a five yard penalty fromthe line of scrimmage 36 and a replay of the previous down. Motion by aplayer prior to the snap can be made by any of the players. All playersin motion must come to a complete stop prior to the ball being snapped.Once set, no more than one player can be in motion at the snap of theball, but no forward motion is allowed while the ball is being snapped.A illegal formation penalty will be called if any offensive player islined up in the neutral zone at the moment the ball is snapped, or ifthere are fewer than 5 offensive players lined up on the line ofscrimmage 36, and will result in a five yard penalty from the line ofscrimmage 36 and a replay of the previous down. The 5 players on theline of scrimmage 36 must include the center 38, the guards, and 2eligible receivers (e.g., one on either side of the offensive line). Afalse start penalty will be called on the offensive squad 10 if anoffensive player in a set position makes a sudden movement in a way thatsimulates the start of the play, and will result in a five yard penaltyfrom the line of scrimmage 36 and a replay of the previous down. Anoff-sides penalty will be called if any defensive player is in theneutral zone or makes contact with an offensive player as the ball issnapped, and will result in a five yard penalty from the line ofscrimmage 36 and a replay of the previous down. If a defensive playercrosses the neutral zone causing an offensive player to false start,encroachment will be called on the defense.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure charging by an offensive player will result in a10 yard penalty from the line of scrimmage 36. An offensive player isguilty of charging when he intentional runs through or over a defensiveplayer with a running start. The ball carrier should be called forcharging if he intentionally runs into a defensive player, lowers hisshoulder or otherwise makes unnecessary contact with a defensive playerin an attempt to cause bodily harm. An offensive blocker should becalled for charging if he intentionally engages a block with hisshoulder and makes not attempts to break down and initiate the blockwith his hands first. Bull rushing by a defensive player will result isa 10 yard penalty from the line of scrimmage 36 and an automatic firstdown for the offensive squad 10. A defensive player is guilty of bullrushing when he intentionally uses him momentum or excessive force torush through the centerline of an offensive player. In order to avoid abull rushing penalty, the defensive player must make appropriate effortto go around or to a leveraged side of the blocker.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure roughing the passer by a defensive player willresult in a 10 yard penalty from the line of scrimmage 36 and anautomatic first down for the offensive squad 10 (or the penalty can bedeclined if the result of the play has a greater advantage). A defensiveplayer is guilty of roughing the passer if he makes excess contact withthe passer before, during, or after throwing the ball. Examples ofroughing the passer include, but are not limited to, rushing the passerand running into the passer while going for his flags, and contactingthe passer's head, shoulders, or throwing arm. However, defensiveplayers are permitted to raise their arms while rushing the passer, solong as no contact is made with the passer.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure an illegal forward pass penalty will be called ifthe ball carrier throws the ball forward after passing beyond the lineof scrimmage 36, or if the ball is thrown forward more than once duringa play, and will result in a 5 yard penalty from the point of infractionand a loss of down. An ineligible receiver downfield penalty will becalled if one of the offensive linemen goes beyond the line of scrimmage36 on a downfield pass before the ball is caught, and will result in a 5yard penalty from the point of infraction and a replay of the previousdown. An intentional grounding penalty will be called if, within thetackle box, the passer throws the ball intentionally away from eligiblereceivers to avoid being downed for a loss. Outside of the tackle box,any pass beyond the line of scrimmage 36 is not considered intentionalgrounding. Moreover, the football can be thrown out of bounds at anytime if the passer is not avoiding being downed. Intentional groundingwill result in a 5 yard penalty from the point of infraction and a lossof down. However, the quarterback 44 (or another player that receivesthe ball from the center 38) can legally spike the ball to stop theclock after the two-minute warning.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure a delay of game penalty will result in a 5 yardpenalty from the line of scrimmage 36 and a replay of the previous down.Delay of game will be called in the following situations: the offensedoes not snap the ball within 30 seconds of the ball being set at theline of scrimmage 36, either squad has too many players on the field, aplayer is not wearing required equipment, a player is wearing bannedequipment, or the defensive squad 12 delays or hinders the offensivesquad 10 from making the snap.

In some embodiments, whether played on the playing field 14, the playingfield 26, or the traditional football field 25, in the football game ofthe present disclosure unsportsmanlike conduct by an offensive playerwill result in a 10 yard penalty assessed at the end of the play and theoffensive squad 10 receives a loss of down. On the other hand,unsportsmanlike conduct by a defensive player will result in a 10 yardpenalty assessed at the line of scrimmage 36 or the end of the play(whichever is more beneficial to the offense), and an automatic firstdown. Unsportsmanlike conduct includes, but is not limited to, verbalabuse, profanity, taunting, or constant/repeated audible criticism ofthe game officials. Similarly, taunting includes any flagrant acts orremarks that deride, mock, or bait an opponent. Individual or communalcelebration is allowed as long as it does not fall under this definitionof taunting. Taunting by an offensive player will result in a 10 yardpenalty from the line of scrimmage 36—if the penalty is called on ascoring play, the penalty yardage will be assessed to the extra pointconversion attempt. On the other hand, taunting by a defensive playerwill result in a 10 yard penalty from the end of the play.

In some embodiments, the football game system 8 and the method ofplaying a football game using the football game system 8 reduce headtrauma and therefore decreases the occurrence of CTE among players. Insome embodiments, the football game system 8 and the method of playing afootball game using the football game system 8 provide a safer form offootball other than those currently available that parents can be morecomfortable signing their children up for. In some embodiments, thefootball game system 8 and the method of playing a football game usingthe football game system 8 ease the transition from flag football tofull-contact tackle football by providing a safe alternative for playersto build the skills and fundamentals needed to play the game safely andsuccessfully. In some embodiments, the football game system 8 and themethod of playing a football game using the football game system 8reduce injuries to still-developing bodies caused by the prematuretransition from flag football to full-contact tackle football.

The present disclosure introduces a method of playing a football game,the method including providing a rectangular playing field havingopposing sidelines, a first end line, and a first goal line, theopposing sidelines extending a length of the playing field and beingspaced apart in a parallel relation by a width of the playing field, thefirst end line extending the width of the playing field between theopposing sidelines, and the first goal line extending the width of theplaying field between the opposing sidelines and being positionedinwardly from, and spaced in a parallel relation with, the first endline; providing an oblong ball; providing a first squad of nine playerseach wearing a soft-shell helmet and soft-shell shoulder pads, andhaving as an objective to move the oblong ball across the first goalline, wherein the first squad is given a predetermined number ofsuccessive plays in which to move the oblong ball a predetermineddistance towards the first goal line, and wherein each successive playbegins when the oblong ball is snapped by a first player on the firstsquad to a second player on the first squad, and ends when the oblongball becomes dead; and providing a second squad of nine players eachwearing a soft-shell helmet and soft-shell shoulder pads, and having asan objective to defend the first goal line by stopping the movement ofthe oblong ball by the first squad towards the first goal line. In someembodiments, the playing field also has a second end line and a secondgoal line, the second end line extending the width of the playing fieldbetween the opposing sidelines, opposite the first end line, and thesecond goal line extending the width of the playing field between theopposing sidelines and being positioned inwardly from, and spaced in aparallel relation with, the second end line. In some embodiments, afailure by the first squad to move the oblong ball the predetermineddistance towards the first goal line within the predetermined number ofsuccessive plays results in possession of the oblong ball being turnedover to the second squad; and, after possession of the oblong ball isturned over to the second squad, the second squad has as an objective tomove the oblong ball across the second goal line. In some embodiments,either: at least each player on the first squad is required to wearflags around their waistline and the oblong football becomes dead duringa play when at least one of the flags worn around the waistline of aplayer from the first squad in possession of the oblong ball becomesdetached; or the oblong football becomes dead during a play when aplayer from second squad tags or touches a player from the first squadin possession of the oblong ball below the shoulders. In someembodiments, the method further includes spotting the oblong ball on theplaying field prior to the beginning of each successive play to trackthe first squad's movement of the oblong ball towards, or away from, thefirst goal line on the previous play; wherein a line of scrimmageextends the width of the playing field between the opposing sidelinesand through the oblong ball spotted on the playing field; and whereinthe line of scrimmage separates the players of the respective first andsecond squads prior to the beginning of each successive play. In someembodiments, the method further includes lining up at least five playersfrom the first squad on the line of scrimmage prior to the beginning ofeach successive play; lining up no more than four player from the firstsquad off of the line of scrimmage prior to the beginning of eachsuccessive play; lining up at least two players from the second squad onthe line of scrimmage, opposite the players of the first squad, prior tothe beginning of each successive play; lining up no more than sevenplayers from the second squad off of the line of scrimmage, opposite theplayers of the first squad, prior to the beginning of each successiveplay; or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, when the oblongball is spotted on the field greater than the predetermined distancefrom the first goal line, the predetermined number of successive playsgiven to the first squad in which to move the oblong ball thepredetermined distance towards the first goal line is three plays; and,when the oblong ball is spotted on the field less than the predetermineddistance from the first goal line, the predetermined number ofsuccessive plays given to the first squad in which to move the oblongball over the first goal line is four plays.

The present disclosure also introduces a football game system, includingan oblong ball; a plurality of soft-shell helmets; a plurality ofsoft-shell shoulder pads; a rectangular playing field having opposingsidelines, a first end line, and a first goal line, the opposingsidelines extending a length of the playing field and being spaced apartin a parallel relation by a width of the playing field, the first endline extending the width of the playing field between the opposingsidelines, and the first goal line extending the width of the playingfield between the opposing sidelines and being positioned inwardly from,and spaced in a parallel relation with, the first end line; a firstsquad of nine players each wearing one of the soft-shell helmets and oneof the soft-shell shoulder pads, and having as an objective to move theoblong ball across the first goal line; and a second squad of nineplayers each wearing one of the soft-shell helmets and one of thesoft-shell shoulder pads, and having as an objective to defend the firstgoal line by stopping the movement of the oblong ball by the first squadtowards the first goal line; wherein the first squad is given apredetermined number of successive plays in which to move the oblongball a predetermined distance towards the first goal line; and whereineach successive play begins when the oblong ball is snapped by a firstplayer on the first squad to a second player on the first squad, andends when the oblong ball becomes dead. In some embodiments, the playingfield also has a second end line and a second goal line, the second endline extending the width of the playing field between the opposingsidelines, opposite the first end line, and the second goal lineextending the width of the playing field between the opposing sidelinesand being positioned inwardly from, and spaced in a parallel relationwith, the second end line. In some embodiments, a failure by the firstsquad to move the oblong ball the predetermined distance towards thefirst goal line within the predetermined number of successive playsresults in possession of the oblong ball being turned over to the secondsquad; and, after possession of the oblong ball is turned over to thesecond squad, the second squad has as an objective to move the oblongball across the second goal line. In some embodiments, either: at leasteach player on the first squad is required to wear flags around theirwaistline and the oblong football becomes dead during a play when atleast one of the flags worn around the waistline of a player from thefirst squad in possession of the oblong ball becomes detached; or theoblong football becomes dead during a play when a player from secondsquad tags or touches a player from the first squad in possession of theoblong ball below the shoulders. In some embodiments, the oblong ball isspotted on the playing field prior to the beginning of each successiveplay to track the first squad's movement of the oblong ball towards, oraway from, the first goal line on the previous play; a line of scrimmageextends the width of the playing field between the opposing sidelinesand through the oblong ball spotted on the playing field; and the lineof scrimmage separates the players of the respective first and secondsquads prior to the beginning of each successive play. In someembodiments, at least five players from the first squad must line up onthe line of scrimmage prior to the beginning of each successive play; nomore than four player from the first squad must line up off of the lineof scrimmage prior to the beginning of each successive play; at leasttwo players from the second squad must line up on the line of scrimmage,opposite the players of the first squad, prior to the beginning of eachsuccessive play; no more than seven players from the second squad mustline up off of the line of scrimmage, opposite the players of the firstsquad, prior to the beginning of each successive play; or anycombination thereof. In some embodiments, when the oblong ball isspotted on the field greater than the predetermined distance from thefirst goal line, the predetermined number of successive plays given tothe first squad in which to move the oblong ball the predetermineddistance towards the first goal line is three plays; and, when theoblong ball is spotted on the field less than the predetermined distancefrom the first goal line, the predetermined number of successive playsgiven to the first squad in which to move the oblong ball over the firstgoal line is four plays.

The present disclosure also introduces a method of playing a footballgame, the method including providing an oblong ball; providing aplurality of soft-shell helmets; providing a plurality of soft-shellshoulder pads; and providing a rectangular playing field having opposingsidelines, a first end line, and a first goal line, the opposingsidelines extending a length of the playing field and being spaced apartin a parallel relation by a width of the playing field, the first endline extending the width of the playing field between the opposingsidelines, and the first goal line extending the width of the playingfield between the opposing sidelines and being positioned inwardly from,and spaced in a parallel relation with, the first end line, whereineither: the length of the playing field is between about 40 yards (120feet) and about 63⅓ yards (190 feet), and the width of the playing fieldis between about 20 yards (60 feet) and about 35 yards (105 feet); orthe length of the playing field is between about 45 yards (135 feet) andabout 55 yards (165 feet), and the width of the playing field is betweenabout 40 yards (120 feet) and about 53⅓ yards (160 feet). In someembodiments, the method further includes providing a single traditionalfootball field having a length of 120 yards (360 feet) and a width of53⅓ yards (160 feet); wherein, if the length of the playing field isbetween about 40 yards (120 feet) and about 63⅓ yards (190 feet), andthe width of the playing field is between about 20 yards (60 feet) andabout 35 yards (105 feet), then the playing field and up to three otherplaying fields substantially identical to the playing field can be setup at the same time on the single traditional football field; andwherein, if the length of the playing field is between about 45 yards(135 feet) and about 55 yards (165 feet), and the width of the playingfield is between about 40 yards (120 feet) and about 53⅓ yards (160feet), then the playing field and one other playing field substantiallyidentical to the playing field can be set up at the same time on thesingle traditional football field. In some embodiments, the methodfurther includes providing a first squad of nine players each wearingone of the soft-shell helmets and one of the soft-shell shoulder pads,and having as an objective to move the oblong ball across the first goalline; and providing a second squad of nine players each wearing one ofthe soft-shell helmets and one of the soft-shell shoulder pads, andhaving as an objective to defend the first goal line by stopping themovement of the oblong ball by the first squad towards the first goalline; wherein the first squad is given a predetermined number ofsuccessive plays in which to move the oblong ball a predetermineddistance towards the first goal line; and wherein each successive playbegins when the oblong ball is snapped by a first player on the firstsquad to a second player on the first squad, and ends when the oblongball becomes dead. In some embodiments, the playing field also has asecond end line and a second goal line, the second end line extendingthe width of the playing field between the opposing sidelines, oppositethe first end line, and the second goal line extending the width of theplaying field between the opposing sidelines and being positionedinwardly from, and spaced in a parallel relation with, the second endline; a failure by the first squad to move the oblong ball thepredetermined distance towards the first goal line within thepredetermined number of successive plays results in possession of theoblong ball being turned over to the second squad; and, after possessionof the oblong ball is turned over to the second squad, the second squadhas as an objective to move the oblong ball across the second goal line.In some embodiments, either: at least each player on the first squad isrequired to wear flags around their waistline and the oblong footballbecomes dead during a play when at least one of the flags worn aroundthe waistline of a player from the first squad in possession of theoblong ball becomes detached; or the oblong football becomes dead duringa play when a player from second squad tags or touches a player from thefirst squad in possession of the oblong ball below the shoulders. Insome embodiments, the method further includes spotting the oblong ballon the playing field prior to the beginning of each successive play totrack the first squad's movement of the oblong ball towards, or awayfrom, the first goal line on the previous play; wherein a line ofscrimmage extends the width of the playing field between the opposingsidelines and through the oblong ball spotted on the playing field; andwherein the line of scrimmage separates the players of the respectivefirst and second squads prior to the beginning of each successive play.In some embodiments, at least five players from the first squad mustline up on the line of scrimmage prior to the beginning of eachsuccessive play; no more than four player from the first squad must lineup off of the line of scrimmage prior to the beginning of eachsuccessive play; at least two players from the second squad must line upon the line of scrimmage, opposite the players of the first squad, priorto the beginning of each successive play; no more than seven playersfrom the second squad must line up off of the line of scrimmage,opposite the players of the first squad, prior to the beginning of eachsuccessive play; or any combination thereof In some embodiments, whenthe oblong ball is spotted on the field greater than the predetermineddistance from the first goal line, the predetermined number ofsuccessive plays given to the first squad in which to move the oblongball the predetermined distance towards the first goal line is threeplays; and, when the oblong ball is spotted on the field less than thepredetermined distance from the first goal line, the predeterminednumber of successive plays given to the first squad in which to move theoblong ball over the first goal line is four plays.

The present disclosure also introduces a football game system, includingan oblong ball; a plurality of soft-shell helmets; a plurality ofsoft-shell shoulder pads; and a rectangular playing field havingopposing sidelines, a first end line, and a first goal line, theopposing sidelines extending a length of the playing field and beingspaced apart in a parallel relation by a width of the playing field, thefirst end line extending the width of the playing field between theopposing sidelines, and the first goal line extending the width of theplaying field between the opposing sidelines and being positionedinwardly from, and spaced in a parallel relation with, the first endline, wherein either: the length of the playing field is between about40 yards (120 feet) and about 63⅓ yards (190 feet), and the width of theplaying field is between about 20 yards (60 feet) and about 35 yards(105 feet); or the length of the playing field is between about 45 yards(135 feet) and about 55 yards (165 feet), and the width of the playingfield is between about 40 yards (120 feet) and about 53⅓ yards (160feet). In some embodiments, the football game system further includes asingle traditional football field having a length of 120 yards (360feet) and a width of 53⅓ yards (160 feet); wherein, if the length of theplaying field is between about 40 yards (120 feet) and about 63⅓ yards(190 feet), and the width of the playing field is between about 20 yards(60 feet) and about 35 yards (105 feet), then the playing field and upto three other playing fields substantially identical to the playingfield can be set up at the same time on the single traditional footballfield; and wherein, if the length of the playing field is between about45 yards (135 feet) and about 55 yards (165 feet), and the width of theplaying field is between about 40 yards (120 feet) and about 53⅓ yards(160 feet), then the playing field and one other playing fieldsubstantially identical to the playing field can be set up at the sametime on the single traditional football field. In some embodiments, thefootball game system further includes a first squad of nine players eachwearing one of the soft-shell helmets and one of the soft-shell shoulderpads, and having as an objective to move the oblong ball across thefirst goal line; and a second squad of nine players each wearing one ofthe soft-shell helmets and one of the soft-shell shoulder pads, andhaving as an objective to defend the first goal line by stopping themovement of the oblong ball by the first squad towards the first goalline; wherein the first squad is given a predetermined number ofsuccessive plays in which to move the oblong ball a predetermineddistance towards the first goal line; and wherein each successive playbegins when the oblong ball is snapped by a first player on the firstsquad to a second player on the first squad, and ends when the oblongball becomes dead. In some embodiments, the playing field also has asecond end line and a second goal line, the second end line extendingthe width of the playing field between the opposing sidelines, oppositethe first end line, and the second goal line extending the width of theplaying field between the opposing sidelines and being positionedinwardly from, and spaced in a parallel relation with, the second endline; a failure by the first squad to move the oblong ball thepredetermined distance towards the first goal line within thepredetermined number of successive plays results in possession of theoblong ball being turned over to the second squad; and, after possessionof the oblong ball is turned over to the second squad, the second squadhas as an objective to move the oblong ball across the second goal line.In some embodiments, either: at least each player on the first squad isrequired to wear flags around their waistline and the oblong footballbecomes dead during a play when at least one of the flags worn aroundthe waistline of a player from the first squad in possession of theoblong ball becomes detached; or the oblong football becomes dead duringa play when a player from second squad tags or touches a player from thefirst squad in possession of the oblong ball below the shoulders. Insome embodiments, the oblong ball is spotted on the playing field priorto the beginning of each successive play to track the first squad'smovement of the oblong ball towards, or away from, the first goal lineon the previous play; a line of scrimmage extends the width of theplaying field between the opposing sidelines and through the oblong ballspotted on the playing field; and the line of scrimmage separates theplayers of the respective first and second squads prior to the beginningof each successive play. In some embodiments, at least five players fromthe first squad must line up on the line of scrimmage prior to thebeginning of each successive play; no more than four player from thefirst squad must line up off of the line of scrimmage prior to thebeginning of each successive play; at least two players from the secondsquad must line up on the line of scrimmage, opposite the players of thefirst squad, prior to the beginning of each successive play; no morethan seven players from the second squad must line up off of the line ofscrimmage, opposite the players of the first squad, prior to thebeginning of each successive play; or any combination thereof In someembodiments, when the oblong ball is spotted on the field greater thanthe predetermined distance from the first goal line, the predeterminednumber of successive plays given to the first squad in which to move theoblong ball the predetermined distance towards the first goal line isthree plays; and, when the oblong ball is spotted on the field less thanthe predetermined distance from the first goal line, the predeterminednumber of successive plays given to the first squad in which to move theoblong ball over the first goal line is four plays.

It is understood that variations may be made in the foregoing withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the elements and teachings of the variousembodiments may be combined in whole or in part in some or all of theembodiments. In addition, one or more of the elements and teachings ofthe various embodiments may be omitted, at least in part, and/orcombined, at least in part, with one or more of the other elements andteachings of the various embodiments.

Any spatial references, such as, for example, “upper,” “lower,” “above,”“below,” “between,” “bottom,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “angular,”“upwards,” “downwards,” “side-to-side,” “left-to-right,”“right-to-left,” “top-to-bottom,” “bottom-to-top,” “top,” “bottom,”“bottom-up,” “top-down,” etc., are for the purpose of illustration onlyand do not limit the specific orientation or location of the structuredescribed above.

In some embodiments, while different steps, processes, and proceduresare described as appearing as distinct acts, one or more of the steps,one or more of the processes, and/or one or more of the procedures mayalso be performed in different orders, simultaneously and/orsequentially. In some embodiments, the steps, processes, and/orprocedures may be merged into one or more steps, processes and/orprocedures.

In some embodiments, one or more of the operational steps in eachembodiment may be omitted. Moreover, in some instances, some features ofthe present disclosure may be employed without a corresponding use ofthe other features. Moreover, one or more of the above-describedembodiments and/or variations may be combined in whole or in part withany one or more of the other above-described embodiments and/orvariations.

Although some embodiments have been described in detail above, theembodiments described are illustrative only and are not limiting, andthose skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many othermodifications, changes and/or substitutions are possible in theembodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings andadvantages of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all suchmodifications, changes, and/or substitutions are intended to be includedwithin the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims.In the claims, any means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover thestructures described herein as performing the recited function and notonly structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Moreover,it is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112, paragraph 6 for any limitations of any of the claims herein, exceptfor those in which the claim expressly uses the word “means” togetherwith an associated function.

1-22. (canceled)
 23. A football game system, comprising: a plurality ofoblong balls; a plurality of soft-shell helmets; a plurality ofsoft-shell shoulder pads; a single traditional football field having alength of 120 yards (360 feet) and a width of 53⅓ yards (160 feet); anda plurality of rectangular playing fields, each having opposingsidelines, a first end line, a first goal line, a first end zone, afirst starting line of scrimmage, a second end line, a second goal line,a second end zone, and a second starting line of scrimmage, the opposingsidelines extending a length of the playing field and being spaced apartin a parallel relation by a width of the playing field, the first endline extending the width of the playing field between the opposingsidelines, the first goal line extending the width of the playing fieldbetween the opposing sidelines and being positioned inwardly from, andspaced in a parallel relation with, the first end line, the first endzone being defined by an area between the first end line and the firstgoal line, the first starting line of scrimmage being positionedinwardly from, and spaced in a parallel relation with, the first goalline, the second end line extending the width of the playing fieldbetween the opposing sidelines, opposite the first end line, the secondgoal line extending the width of the playing field between the opposingsidelines and being positioned inwardly from, and spaced in a parallelrelation with, the second end line, the second end zone being defined byan area between the second end line and the second goal line, and thesecond starting line of scrimmage being positioned inwardly from, andspaced in a parallel relation with, the second goal line; wherein: thelength of each playing field is between about 40 yards (120 feet) andabout 63⅓ yards (190 feet), and the width of each playing field isbetween about 20 yards (60 feet) and about 35 yards (105 feet); theplurality of rectangular playing fields comprises four substantiallyidentical playing fields set up on the single traditional football fieldso as not to overlap each other; and the four substantially identicalplaying fields are separated from each other by a minimum of 5 yards.24-30. (canceled)
 31. The football game system of claim 23, wherein therespective widths of the four substantially identical playing fields are25 yards (75 feet).
 32. The football game system of claim 23, whereinthe respective lengths of the four substantially identical playingfields run from sideline to sideline on the single traditional footballfield; and wherein the first and second end zones of each of the foursubstantially identical playing fields are within the boundaries of thesingle traditional football field.
 33. The football game system of claim23, wherein the first and second goal lines of each of the foursubstantially identical playing fields are located on opposing sidelinesof the single traditional football field; and wherein the first andsecond end zones of each of the four substantially identical playingfields are at least partially outside the boundaries of the singletraditional football field.
 34. A football game system, comprising: aplurality of oblong balls; a plurality of soft-shell helmets; aplurality of soft-shell shoulder pads; a single traditional footballfield having a length of 120 yards (360 feet) and a width of 53⅓ yards(160 feet); and a plurality of rectangular playing fields, each havingopposing sidelines, an end line, a goal line, and end zone, and astarting line of scrimmage, the opposing sidelines extending a length ofthe playing field and being spaced apart in a parallel relation by awidth of the playing field, the end line and the starting line ofscrimmage each extending the width of the playing field between theopposing sidelines and being spaced apart in a parallel relation by thelength of the playing field, the goal line extending the width of theplaying field between the opposing sidelines and being positionedinwardly from, and spaced in a parallel relation with, the end line, andthe end zone being defined by an area between the end line and the goalline; wherein: the length of each playing field is between about 45yards (135 feet) and about 55 yards (165 feet), and the width of eachplaying field is between about 40 yards (120 feet) and about 53⅓ yards(160 feet); the plurality of rectangular playing fields comprises twosubstantially identical playing fields set up on the single traditionalfootball field so as not to overlap each other; the respective widths ofthe two substantially identical playing fields run from sideline tosideline on the single traditional football field; and the respectiveend zones of the two substantially identical playing fields coincidewith opposing end zones of the single traditional football field. 35.The football game system of claim 35, wherein the respective startinglines of scrimmage of the two substantially identical playing fields arelocated on opposing 45-yard-lines of the single traditional footballfield.